Quick question regarding windows key


  1. Posts : 1
    windows 10
       #1

    Quick question regarding windows key


    I got some ransomware on my dell laptop about a week ago. Reading about it I will probably have to reinstall the windows iso through flashdrive. If I wanted to explore other OS's and then maybe go back to windows again if I need to, will the auth key still work? It does not have a sticker on the bottom, but I think I read they put it in the BIOS for security? The reason why I am doing this is because there is a piece of software I need that also supports Linux, and I want to see if it runs just as well and maybe ditch windows if I can. Thanks
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 42,734
    Win 10 Pro (22H2) (2nd PC is 22H2)
       #2

    Once you have activated Win 10 on a given device you can freely reinstall it and it should activate automatically.

    Recommended: use disk imaging. Get ransomware? Restore your previous working image.
      My Computers


  3. Posts : 15,025
    Windows 10 IoT
       #3

    If it came with Windows 10 factory installed, it should have an embedded key. This utility will tell you if it is or not, assuming you can run it from Windows, https://www.tenforums.com/software-ap...7-showkey.html I think there is an offline version linked in that thread someplace too?
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 15,025
    Windows 10 IoT
       #4

    dalchina said:
    Once you have activated Win 10 on a given device you can freely reinstall it and it should activate automatically.
    Not all PC's will get a digital entitlement though. There are instances on a reinstall where you have to enter a product code, or one has to be detected in the BIOS. If you buy a Retail disk, you will have to enter the product code on every install. According to this anyway. http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/w...-in-windows-10 It shouldn't affect the OP though if he has an embedded key. As long as they install the correct version.
      My Computer


 

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